It’s no secret Americans love vacations, in 2016 almost 67 million citizens traveled outside the country and 5,877 million gallons were used that year to fuel our international travel frenzy.
We all live and love everything NYC, but sometimes we need to get a breath full of fresh air. Before the fall semester starts and for the sake of saving gas and money, check out some of New York’s vacation hotspots- all accessible by public transport from NYC.
Bear Mountain, NY
Though well-known to avid New Yorker hikers, no matter your level of commitment, everyone should escape to get the fresh air and the picturesque views. Undertake the trek to Bear Mountain Peak to get a glimpse of New York, Massachusetts, Connecticut, New Jersey and the Manhattan skyline, all in one view.
Lodging: Bear Mountain Inn
Travel: Tour bus from Port Authority (42nd st. & 8th Ave)
Catskill, NY
If you haven’t been to upstate New York, the summer is the best time to do it. No need to take a plane to Hawaii to swim in waterfalls, the Catskills is home to Vernooy Kill Falls, Kaaterskill Falls, Russell Brook Falls and Tompkins Falls.
For animal lovers, Catskill Animal Sanctuary is a 123-acre rescue for eleven species of animals rescued from neglect. For those who want to get the full experience, the Sanctuary offers a pre-Civil War lodging.
Lodging: Catskill Animal Sanctuary
Travel: Bus from Port Authority (42nd&8th Ave)
Rockaway, Queens, NY
NYC is home to some of the most beautiful beaches on the East Coast, one with an emerging sustainable community is the Rockaways. Rebuilt from Hurricane Sandy, the Rockaways now offers public art spaces, free wifi and miles of beachfront property.
This is the perfect location if you’re only looking for a day trip, the Rockaways is perfect for those wanting to escape from Jones Beach crowds.
Lodging: Airbnb or just take the train/bus/ferry back
Travel: NYC Beach Bus; A train to beach 67th St. stop; ferry from Wall St./Pier 11 to Rockaway
Beacon, NY
This sleepy town alongside Hudson River is surprisingly full of treasures. Some highlights include Bannerman Castle, an abandoned arsenal that looks like a grand palace, and Dia:Beacon, a 27 acre modern art museum.
Neighboring towns like Cold Springs and West point are closeby with equally as quaint
Lodging: Botsford Briar
Travel: Metro-North from Grand Central
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